As the Philippine economy steadily grows, so does the demand for commercial vehicles such as light-duty trucks, considered to be the backbone of trade and commerce. According to consolidated figures of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) and the Association of Vehicle Importers and Distributors, Inc. (AVID), more than 500,000 vehicles were sold locally in 2017, a 17.5 percent spike over 2016’s figure, with the commercial vehicle segment alone grew an incredible 26.4 percent in 2017.

Realizing the very competitive landscape, Foton Philippines is launching a new offering in the light-duty truck segment, the Foton Tornado M4.2C.

Powered by an advanced 3.8-liter ISF Blue Energy engine developed and manufactured by Cummins for Foton, it passes the Euro 4 emissions standard. Producing 600 Nm of torque, it can confidently move this 14-footer truck and its payload. Other engine features include a Bosch common rail direct injection system (CRDi), exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel oxidizing catalyst (DOC), and particle oxidizing catalyst (POC) for enhanced fuel efficiency and lower emissions.


Unlike many other trucks, the Foton Tornado M4.2C boasts a full complement of safety technology. Not only does it offer a full air-brake function that ensures secure and stable stopping forces at all times, it also has WABCO anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). It comes with a redesigned panoramic windshield for increased visibility, an additional passenger side under mirror for blindspot coverage, three-point ELR seatbelts, and rear parking sensors at the back.

Inside, the driver and occupants are pampered with convenience and comfort technology rarely seen in light-duty trucks. Front and center is a full-featured infotainment system with Bluetooth hands-free telephony and a touchscreen interface. Air conditioning is also standard as is a multi-info dashboard display with an on-board trip computer. For even greater comfort, the steering column is adjustable for tilt while the driver’s seat is adjustable in four ways (the passenger seat can be reclined). Dual overhead compartments serve as perfect receptacles for documents and other valuables, while the center seat backrest can be collapsed to reveal cup holders and an additional storage compartment.

Underneath, the Foton Tornado M4.2C features a high-strength steel chassis for heightened stability and heavier payload. Its upper-frame chassis has a rivetless design for easier fitment of carious cargo body configurations while a corrosion-free alloy fuel tank and air brake cylinder ensures long-term longevity.

Prices for the Foton Tornado M4.2C will be announced soon.